Frequently Asked Questions About Medicare Advantage Plan Exits
Will my ongoing medical treatments be covered through December 31, 2026?
Yes, your terminating plan remains legally obligated to honor all covered medical claims through December 31, 2026. You can visit doctors and fill approved prescriptions normally through the final day of the year.
If you have ongoing treatments scheduled for early 2027, coordinate with your new insurer immediately. Obtaining advance prior authorization prevents treatment interruptions when your new policy starts on January 1.
What happens if I miss the December 7 Open Enrollment deadline?
You do not lose your opportunity to get private coverage if you miss December 7. Your plan non-renewal grants you a dedicated Special Enrollment Period running from December 8, 2026, through February 28, 2027.
Enrolling during December starts coverage on January 1, 2027. If you enroll during January, your benefits begin February 1, while a February enrollment pushes your start date to March 1.
Can a Medigap insurer deny me coverage due to pre-existing conditions?
No, provided you apply within your guaranteed issue window. Federal law prohibits Medigap insurers from rejecting your application, imposing waiting periods, or inflating premiums due to your health status.
Your guaranteed issue period runs from 60 days before December 31, 2026, until 63 days after that date. You must provide a copy of your termination notice as proof of eligibility.
How can I tell if my plan is being discontinued or just consolidated?
Read your annual paperwork carefully to identify the exact terminology used by your carrier. A true non-renewal notice explicitly confirms that your plan is ending and details your guaranteed issue protections.
If your insurer moves you into another internal plan, they will send an Annual Notice of Change. This crosswalk transfer does not trigger guaranteed issue rights or a non-renewal Special Enrollment Period.
HealthyHabits.care is an independent publication and is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. This article is general information, not insurance or legal advice. For free, unbiased help with your coverage, contact your State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) or call 1-800-MEDICARE.
